Allyship: What is it, and how can I be a better ally?

What is “Allyship”? 

Allyship is defined by the Anti-Oppression Network (2015) as “a lifelong process of building relationships based on trust, consistency, and accountability with marginalized individuals and/or groups of people”.  

What is meant by an “Active Ally”? 

Whilst allyship means building trust and accountability, this should only be the start. Being active as an ally goes one step further. An active ally is defined as “someone who is truly engaged and prepared to take consistent and meaningful action to ensure their communities are safe and inclusive for all" (Salesforce, 2022). 

Tips on being a better active rainbow ally 

1. Share your pronouns in introductions, email signatures and social media bios.
2. Use gender-neutral language in day-to-day conversations and challenging stereotypes where you hear or see them being used.
3. Educate those around you about marginalised lives and their struggles. 
4. Be active in tackling discrimination. Wherever you see or hear homophobia, biphobia, transphobia etc, try to challenge it. 
5. Remember that it’s okay to not know everything, no one can possibly know it all. Instead, be willing to learn and educate yourself and those around you.